Remove any preconceived notions you may have about veggie burgers. This is not some frostbitten hockey puck of a patty that’s been sitting in your grocer’s freezer section for an eternity. Nay! This is a delicious handmade treasure, bursting with moisture and flavor thanks to the mixture of black beans and fresh mushrooms. Topped with arugula, roasted red bell pepper, avocado, and aioli you’re welcome in advance!

To make the aioli, combine the vegan mayonnaise, Sriracha, cumin, and garlic in a small bowl and stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

To make the patties, spread the rinsed and drained beans in a single layer on a clean kitchen towel or paper towels. Cover with an additional towel or more paper towels and pat dry.

In a small bowl, mix the flaxseeds and water and let sit for several minutes, until a gel forms.

Heat the oil in a large cast‐iron or nonstick skillet over medium‐high heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add the mushrooms and sauté until they have given off their moisture and begin to brown, 5 to 7 minutes. Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.

Transfer to a food processor and add the beans, flaxseed gel, cilantro, garlic, Sriracha, liquid aminos, pepper, and 1 cup of bread crumbs. Pulse just until combined, with some chunky bean bits still intact. Form the mixture into 4 patties and let sit while you preheat the grill. If the patties aren’t firm enough to hold their shape, incorporate additional bread crumbs by hand, then form into patties again.

Lightly oil a grill or grill pan and preheat to medium‐high heat. Using a metal spatula, gently transfer the patties onto the grill. Cook until well browned on both sides, about 10 minutes total, gently flipping once about halfway through. Lightly toast buns in the last minute or two of cooking if desired.

To assemble the burger, spread the aioli on the top and bottom of each bun. Load each up with a patty, a small handful of arugula, and one‐fourth of the red bell pepper and avocado. Serve immediately.